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Alaska Cabins and Remote Lakes – What to Know Before You Buy

Whether you are going to use the property as your primary residents, a vacation hot spot or you’re merely looking to make a property investment, you’ll find plenty of value in Alaska Real Estate. With the unaltered Alaskan landscape, sea ports and remote villages, nature lovers will find themselves right at home. If you are looking for a cabin or remote property in Alaska, you have much to be excited about, but you also have a few things to consider. Here are a few things to think about before you buy.

Which Type of Property?

Are you looking for undeveloped land or property with an existing structure, such as a log cabin? You also have to decide whether or not you plan to live in the home or on the property, or how far you’re willing to travel to access the home if it’s going to be a vacation or investment property.

Before you buy any property, it’s always best to create a list of pros and cons, and be specific about what you would or wouldn’t like about the property in question. This is a big decision. Don’t take it lightly.

Time to View the Property

After you’ve decided which type of property you want to buy, the next step is viewing the property up close and personal. First, you’ll want to choose the right type of help. Choose a realtor that is qualified and someone who knows the area and property. Most of all, make sure the realtor knows all the seasonal restrictions for accessing the property you’ve chosen.

I also recommend that you map the location and create a travel plan so that you know how you’re going to view the property and that you have enough fuel to get there and back. Check the weather before you go to make sure you’re not traveling ahead of a major storm and wear the proper clothing, as well as pack the proper survival gear, such as food, water and a first-aid kit.

Keep in mind that you may see a bear, moose or other wildlife on the property you’re viewing. Make sure your real estate agent is prepared to handle this type of situation and knows exactly what to do. It shouldn’t need to be said, but never, ever approach a wild animal without proper training.

Loans and Financing

If you are purchasing undeveloped land, you may find that your loan and financing options are rather limited. Buying land with an existing structure is far easier. Mortgage lenders tend to avoid undeveloped land, as there’s no collateral and that means far greater risk to the lender.

If you still have your heart on undeveloped land, you may need to find a larger down payment or you might need to settle for a higher interest rate if the lender does decide to take the chance.

A last resort might require you to look for a remote property for sale with owner financing. Even though owner financing is less common than loans or financing using a traditional bank, it might be a viable option for you and the seller and it deserves to be checked out.

No matter what type of Alaska real estate property you have your heart set on, Chris Swires is Alaska’s real estate agent and I can help you find the home, vacation home or property you desire. I’m familiar with Alaska and all its wildlife and terrain and I’m confident that I can help you view any remote cabin or property for sale on Alaskan soil. Call me today and let’s discuss a future trip to go view the latest Alaska property for sale. I’m ready when you are.